Olive Garden Artichoke Spinach Dip

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This dip brings all the flavors of Olive Garden’s beloved appetizer right into your home. It’s creamy, cheesy, and full of flavor, thanks to the combination of spinach, artichokes, and a rich blend of cheeses. The best part? It’s incredibly easy to make! Whether you’re hosting a dinner party, watching the game, or just looking for a comforting snack, this dip is perfect for any occasion. The mixture of melted cheeses with the savory spinach and artichokes creates an irresistible combination that everyone will love.

Ingredients

• 1 cup frozen spinach (thawed and drained)

• 1 can (14 oz) artichoke hearts (drained and chopped)

• 1 cup cream cheese (softened)

• 1/2 cup sour cream

• 1/2 cup mayonnaise

• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese

• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

• 1 teaspoon garlic powder

• 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for some heat)

• Salt and pepper to taste

• Fresh parsley (chopped, for garnish)

• Bread, crackers, or fresh vegetables (for serving)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Preheat the oven:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a small baking dish (about 8×8-inch) with a little cooking spray or butter.

2. Prepare the dip mixture:

1. In a large bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, sour cream, and mayonnaise. Mix until smooth and well-blended.

2. Add the garlic powder, crushed red pepper flakes (if using), Parmesan cheese, and mozzarella cheese to the mixture. Stir until everything is fully combined.

3. Gently fold in the thawed spinach and chopped artichoke hearts. Make sure the spinach and artichokes are evenly distributed throughout the dip. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

3. Bake the dip:

1. Transfer the dip mixture to the prepared baking dish and spread it evenly.

2. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the dip is hot and bubbly and the top is lightly golden brown.

4. Serve:

1. Remove the dip from the oven and garnish with freshly chopped parsley.

2. Serve immediately with toasted bread, crackers, or fresh veggies like carrots, celery, or cucumber.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 6-8 servings

• Prep Time: 10 minutes

• Cook Time: 20-25 minutes

• Total Time: 35 minutes

Variations

• Spicy version: Add diced jalapeños, cayenne pepper, or a splash of hot sauce to the dip for a spicy kick.

• More cheese: You can add extra cheese, such as sharp cheddar or Gruyère, for a richer, more complex flavor.

• Vegan option: Use dairy-free cream cheese, mayonnaise, and vegan cheese to make this dip dairy-free.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

• Reheating: To reheat, place the dip in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through, or microwave individual servings for 30-60 seconds.

FAQs

1. Can I use fresh spinach instead of frozen?

Yes, you can use fresh spinach instead of frozen. Sauté it in a pan until wilted, then drain and chop before adding it to the dip. Be sure to remove as much moisture as possible to avoid a watery dip.

2. Can I make this dip ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the dip ahead of time, refrigerate it, and then bake it when you’re ready to serve. Just make sure to bring it to room temperature before baking to ensure even heating.

3. Can I make this dip in a slow cooker?

Yes, you can make this dip in a slow cooker. Combine all the ingredients in the slow cooker and cook on low for 2-3 hours, stirring occasionally, until it’s hot and bubbly.

4. Can I make this dip without mayonnaise?

Yes, you can substitute the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt for a lighter version, or use extra sour cream in place of the mayo for a creamier texture.

5. Can I add other vegetables to the dip?

Yes, you can add other vegetables like mushrooms, bell peppers, or onions to the dip. Just be sure to sauté and drain any vegetables that release moisture before mixing them in.

6. Can I use canned artichoke hearts instead of fresh?

Yes, canned artichoke hearts work perfectly in this recipe. Just be sure to drain and chop them before adding them to the dip.

7. Can I use other types of cheese?

Yes, feel free to experiment with different cheeses like Gouda, Havarti, or Fontina for a unique flavor. Just make sure to use a combination of soft and hard cheeses to get the creamy consistency.

8. How can I make this dip thicker?

If you prefer a thicker dip, you can reduce the amount of sour cream or add a bit more cream cheese to the mixture.

9. Can I freeze this dip?

While this dip is best fresh, you can freeze the unbaked dip for up to 2 months. Let it cool completely before freezing. When you’re ready to bake, thaw the dip in the fridge overnight and then bake as directed.

10. What can I serve this dip with?

This dip is delicious served with toasted baguette slices, pita chips, tortilla chips, or fresh veggies like carrots, cucumbers, and bell peppers. It’s also great with crackers or even as a topping for baked potatoes.

Conclusion

Olive Garden’s Artichoke Spinach Dip is a classic, creamy, and comforting appetizer that’s perfect for any occasion. With its cheesy, rich filling and savory artichokes and spinach, it’s guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser. Easy to make and wonderfully indulgent, this dip pairs perfectly with a variety of dippables and will undoubtedly become a favorite at your next gathering. Whether it’s a holiday party, game night, or casual get-together, this dip is sure to be the star of the show!

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